Nigeria’s energy sector is on the cusp of a revolutionary transformation as leading industry experts urge the full adoption of digital revolution technologies to tackle pressing challenges in oil and gas production, distribution, and management.
The call came during the recently concluded Press Week Lecture and Symposium organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the News Agency of Nigeria Chapel in Lagos, an event that brought together policymakers, media professionals, traditional rulers, and students.
Digital Evolution Will Transform Energy Sector: Experts Advocate Urgent Reforms
The symposium, themed “Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas”, highlighted the urgent need for Nigerian energy stakeholders to embrace cutting-edge digital solutions.
The experts emphasized that digitalisation could drastically improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, enhance safety, and align industry practices with sustainability and environmental standards.
Speaking on behalf of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PTAN), Vice Chairman Mr. Obi Uzu revealed that Nigeria’s oil production had risen to approximately 1.7 million barrels per day, with projections to reach 2 million barrels per day shortly.
Uzu stressed that these gains, if optimally managed through digital tools, could strengthen the naira, support vital infrastructure projects—such as the planned railway networks connecting Lagos to northern, eastern, and southern Nigeria—and reduce the country’s reliance on external borrowing.
“The adoption of digital technologies is not just a trend but a necessity,” he remarked.
“Prudent use of oil revenue, guided by advanced technology, can fuel national development and safeguard financial independence, much like the Norwegian model that has successfully invested oil wealth in education, infrastructure, and long-term growth.”
Unlocking the Power of Digitalisation in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Industry
Clement Isong, CEO and Executive Secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), highlighted the downstream sector as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
Represented by Ms. Ogechi Nkwoji, Isong noted that efficient digital operations in refining, storage, distribution, and retail activities are essential to sustaining commerce, hospital services, and overall economic stability.
Isong identified persistent challenges, including price volatility, equipment failures, fuel losses, fraud, and environmental risks, which are exacerbated by aging infrastructure, inadequate record-keeping, and skills gaps.
He proposed an integrated approach leveraging IoT forecourt automation, AI-powered leak detection, terminal automation systems, digital tank gauging, predictive maintenance, blockchain-based supply chain transparency, and cashless fuelling platforms to enhance operational efficiency and safeguard Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.
He added, “Many MEMAN members are already progressing toward full digitalisation. This shift not only improves safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency but also enhances financial transparency, regulatory compliance, and workforce productivity.”
Policy Reforms Must Complement Technological Innovation
Experts stressed that digital evolution alone is insufficient without bold policy reforms and strong institutional frameworks.
Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, emphasised that coherent policies and decisive leadership are essential to attract investments, boost production, diversify revenue streams, and create sustainable jobs.
Dr. Ayodele Oni of Bloomfield Law Practice underscored technology’s role in remote monitoring of oil and gas facilities, advising that Nigeria should expand pipeline infrastructure to transport gas to North Africa and Europe.
“Digitalisation is no longer optional,” Oni said. “To remain globally competitive and resilient in the energy transition era, Nigeria must integrate smart technology across all facets of oil and gas operations.”
Industry Leaders Embrace Technology-Driven Solutions
Companies such as Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) are leading the charge with innovative platforms for real-time digital incident reporting, digital Unsafe Act and Unsafe Condition reporting tools, Safety Observation Reporting Tracking, and streamlined e-Permit to Work systems.
Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Aveek Biswas, highlighted that these platforms reinforce transparency, compliance, and rapid response, while supporting Nigeria’s economic development and aligning with global industry standards.
Experts agreed that a strategic digital revolution in the Nigerian energy sector could transform production, increase operational efficiency, reduce environmental risks, attract foreign investment, and ultimately enhance the country’s energy security.
The symposium concluded with a unified message: the digital evolution will transform Nigeria’s energy sector, but success hinges on collaboration among government, regulators, private companies, and civil society to ensure sustainable growth and economic resilience.
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